Interventional Treatments for Low Back Pain

Low back pain is a common condition that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Conservative treatments for back pain are non-invasive, non-surgical options that may be used to alleviate pain and improve mobility. These treatments are typically the first line of defense against back pain and may be recommended before considering more invasive treatments.

Some of the most common conservative treatments for back pain include:

  1. Physical therapy: This treatment involves working with a licensed physical therapist to improve flexibility, strength, and mobility in the back muscles. Physical therapy may involve exercises, stretches, and other techniques to alleviate pain and improve function.
  2. Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be used to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
  3. Heat and cold therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Heat therapy, such as using a heating pad or a warm bath, can help relax muscles and improve circulation. Cold therapy, such as an ice pack or cold compress, can help reduce inflammation and numb pain.
  4. Massage therapy: Massaging the affected area can help to improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate pain. Massage therapy may involve deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, or other techniques.
  5. Acupuncture: This treatment involves placing thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and alleviate pain. Acupuncture may be used to treat chronic back pain and other conditions.

 UC Davis offers many of these options for patients after evaluation and review of imaging studies.Bottom of Form Several interventional treatment options can help alleviate pain and improve mobility when conservative treatments fail. Some of these options include:

  1. Medial branch radiofrequency ablation (RFA): This treatment involves using heat to destroy the medial branch nerves that transmit pain signals from the facet joints in the spine. This can provide long-lasting pain relief.
  2. Basivertebral ablation: This minimally invasive procedure involves the application of heat, to destroy the sensory nerves in the vertebral body. It may be an option for patients with vertebral degeneration and chronic low back pain.
  3. Spinal cord stimulation: This treatment involves placing a small device under the skin that sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord, disrupting pain signals and reducing the pain the patient feels.
  4. Medial branch peripheral nerve stimulation: This treatment involves placing small electrodes on the medial branch nerves and delivering electrical impulses to disrupt pain signals.
  5. Restorative stimulation of the multifidus muscle: The Reactiv8 procedure involves placing electrodes into the multifidus muscle to improve its function and strength.

 Patients with low back pain may benefit from one or a combination of these treatments. Before undergoing any procedure, patients will undergo a thorough evaluation to determine the best treatment course based on their needs and medical history.